Claremorris. the Irish for which is Clár Chlainne Mhuiris meaning ‘the plain of the family of Maurice’ derives its name from Maurice de Prendergast, a Norman who came to Ireland in 1169. de Priondragás were one of the most powerful families in Ireland at the time and built Castles at Brees and at Castlemacgarrett. The original barony of Clanmorris covers an area of 280 km² or 69,237 acres. The barony of Clanmorris extends towards Knock and includes Ballindine, Irishtown, Balla and Mayoabbey.